Do menopausal symptoms appear after menopause?

I am in my mid-40s now, and these days my period lasts only about two days. Since the duration has shortened, I wonder if I am approaching menopause or if menopause is coming soon. Recently, I often experience sudden hot flashes followed by chills, even if I haven't reached menopause yet. Can menopause occur without completing menopause? I am curious about what age everyone experienced menopause. Since my first period was early, I suppose menopause might also come earlier.